Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - The Alachua County Environmental Protection Department (ACEPD) invites citizens to the Watermelon Pond Preserve Stewardship Planning Meeting on Wednesday, October 27, 2010, at the Archer City Hall (16870 SW 134th Ave, Archer), beginning at 6 p.m. The purpose of the meeting is to solicit citizen input on the stewardship of the Watermelon Pond Preserve.

Alachua County has acquired 520 ± acres within the Alachua County Forever Watermelon Pond Project. The property was acquired to protect, preserve and enhance the unique natural and cultural resources found there, and to provide an enjoyable and educational passive recreational experience.  A management plan is being developed for the property, and ACEPD staff are seeking citizen input on this plan.

Click here to view the draft management plan.  A copy of the plan may be requested by calling 352-264-6835.  Citizen input can be given at the meeting, or by submitting written comments via mail (201 SE 2^nd Ave Suite 201, Gainesville, FL 32601), or email (shetrick@alachuacounty.us) to the Environmental Protection Department Land Conservation Program by October 29, 2010.

For more information, contact Alachua County Senior Environmental Specialist Susie Hetrick 352-264-6800 or shetrick@alachuacounty.us.

If accommodations for persons with disabilities are needed, please contact the Alachua County Equal Opportunity Office at 352-374-5275, or TDD number 352-374-5284.